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Julia Watkin Memorial Kierkegaard Lecture Tuesday

By Lyndel Owens '10
November 2, 2007

C. Stephen Evans, professor of philosophy and humanities at Baylor University and renowned Kierkegaard scholar, will deliver the second annual Julia Watkin Memorial Kierkegaard Lecture on Tuesday, Nov. 6, at 7:15 p.m. in the Trollhaugen Room of Buntrock Commons. The Howard and Edna Hong Kierkegaard Library sponsors the event in remembrance of late Kierkegaard scholar Julia Watkin. The lecture, "Kierkegaard: Father of Existentialism or Critic of Existentialism?" is free and open to the public.

Soren Kierkegaard was a 19th-century Danish philosopher and theologian who is considered instrumental in developing the concept of existentialism as a religious thinker, as well as questioning the truths of the Christian church of his time and place. His thought continues to inspire international research and scholarship.

Evans' address will examine whether the description of Kierkegaard as "the father of existentialism" is helpful in understanding the philosopher. Fascinated by his exploration of Christianity and the ways of being human, Evans will highlight Kierkegaard's "epistemological convictions" and discuss their variance from Enlightenment theories and from the "radical choice" ethic associated with existentialism.

The lecture series will be held in tribute to Julia Watkin, who was a guiding force in Kierkegaard discourse and in the lives of fellow scholars. Watkin, who passed away in 2005 while a professor at the University of Tasmania, authored many books and articles, published the International Kierkegaard Newsletter and facilitated dialogue and connection between Kierkegaard scholars worldwide.

Contact David Gonnerman at 507-786-3315 or gonnermd@stolaf.edu.